Ukraine’s parliament has approved a bill replacing a controversial provision that limited the powers of anti-corruption institutions and triggered the largest public protests since the start of Russia’s invasion more than three years ago, AFP reported. The vote was broadcast live from the parliamentary chamber, with lawmakers endorsing a draft law previously approved by the anti-corruption agencies themselves. The new legislation also introduces regular polygraph tests for employees in the sector.

Kyiv’s European allies had expressed concern that the previous version of the law undermined anti-corruption reforms, which are key to Ukraine’s bid for European Union membership. However, they have supported the updated changes.

Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak welcomed the parliament’s decision and credited Ukrainian citizens who protested against the original bill. “Everyone is a winner, but above all – democratic Ukraine is the winner,” he wrote on social media.

Prime Minister Yuliya Svyrydenko stated that the new law “removes the risk of interference in the work of anti-corruption bodies and strengthens the entire law enforcement system.” According to her, it is “a clear response to the expectations of the public and our European partners.”

Dozens of demonstrators gathered near parliament and the presidential office ahead of the vote, urging lawmakers to support the legislation. President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to sign the bill without delay, completing the legislative process.

The repealed law had placed the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) under the direct authority of the Prosecutor General, who is appointed by the president. Critics of the measure raised concerns that it could open the door to presidential interference in anti-corruption investigations and took to the streets in sustained protests. | BGNES